1969-72 Roberto Clemente Game-Used Bat

Roberto Clemente game-used bat dates from between 1969 and 1972. The Hillerich & Bradsby G105 model bat weighs 38.5 ounces and is 36 inches long. It shows evidence of exceptional game use and has a faded vintage "21" written on the knob. The handle on this uncracked bat has a light coat of pine tar. There is evidence of barrel scoring which is a Clemente trademark on his well-used lumber. This is an ideal Clemente gamer. Clemente is one of the magic names in the world of baseball. His great talent, dignity, concern for others, his love of his native Puerto Rico, and his tragic early death (and the circumstances around it) all contribute to his great appeal, which transcends the sport. This bat, one of the tools of his trade, was used by Roberto Clemente in his final seasons, enroute to barely reaching the magic 3,000 hit plateau, exactly, on the final day of the 1972 season. Perhaps the gods of baseball knew that this would be his last game. Clemente died on December 31, 1972. A special exception was made, which has been granted to no other player, to waive the traditional five-year waiting period for election to the Hall of Fame. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1973. SCD Authentic Grade: A8.5. LOAs from Dave Bushing & Dan Knoll/SCD Authentic and John Taube & Vince Malta/PSA DNA. Reserve $3,000. Estimate $6,000/$10,000.SOLD FOR $7,475.00

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